* The Lions open the season against the Browns, which will serve as the team's public unveiling of the new offense and defense.

* All eyes will be on Matthew Stafford. The Lions have surrounded him with weapons this year, not to mention a coaching staff that is quarterback-friendly. Stafford's progress has been apparent -- including no picks in 11-on-11s through two weeks of camp -- but will that hold up once the bullets start flying? He had 19 interceptions last year, the biggest reason for his downfall.

* The public might have to wait on Eric Ebron, who has been dealing with a nagging injury and hasn't participated in a full-scale practice since Tuesday. He did participate in the light practice Friday morning. The lost reps would hurt, but losing Ebron long-term would hurt even more.

* The rest of the rookie class should get a lot of run. I'll be interested to watch Kyle Van Noy. I've liked what I've seen out of him in camp, and how the Lions intend to use him, but his first-team reps have also been sparse. Curious to see how he looks against Cleveland.

* Of course, the spotlight will shine hot and heavy on Nate Freese and Giorgio Tavecchio. Given all the problems with David Akers last year, it won't take fans long to turn on either kicker if he struggles. It's a tough spot for two young players. How they react is important.

* Non-Lions related, I think the world is interested to see what Johnny Football does in his pro debut. There has been so much hype surrounding Manziel, which makes it seem impossible that he'll live up to the billing. .... But he's somehow done it before. And everyone will be watching to see whether he can do it again.

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